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KNX-Flash

ABB i-bus® KNX

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Based on simple and proven KNX
technology, ABB i-bus® KNX is an
intelligent installation system that meets
the most exacting requirements for
applications in modern home and
building automation.
This system is the world’s first open
standard for controlling intelligent
buildings such as industrial, commercial
or residential buildings.
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Contents

004 – 007 1. KNX and ABB i-bus® KNX

005  1.1 Introduction
006 1.2 What does KNX stand for?
007 1.3 Was does KNX do?

008 – 011 2. Energy efficiency with ABB i-bus® KNX

009  2.1 Potential savings
010 – 011 2.2 Energy consumption in buildings

012 – 022 
3 . KNX – The Intelligent Bus System
013  3.1 Management, structure and topology
014 3.2 Telegrams
015  3.3 Flags
016 – 019 3.4 Data Formats
020  3.5 Installations Instructions
021  3.6 Software
022 3.7 KNXnet/IP / IP Secure

024 – 035 4. Customer requirements and commissioning

025  4.1 Tips and Tricks
026 – 027 4.2 DALI basics
028 – 029 4.3 Universal LED dimmers
030 – 031 4.4 Checklist
032 – 037 4.5 Lamp and Consumer Loads
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1. KNX and ABB i-bus® KNX
Intelligent Building Control

1.1  Introduction
In many areas of our private and working
lifes, the increasing level of automation is a
trend that confronts us on a daily basis with-
out actually being noticed.
Automation in buildings aims to combine indi-
vidual room functions with one another and to
simplify the implementation of individual cus-
tomer preferences.
KNX is the logical development for implement-
ing traditional and new requirements in elec-
trical building installations and thus replacing
conventional installation techniques.
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Image 1: The conventional solution: many separate cables,
separate functions and little flexibility
5
The intelligent installation bus system effi-
ciently performs the conventional functions
and offers an additional broad range of ex-
panded features, which could not be realized
without a bus system.
ABB offers consultants, system integrators
and electrical installers a comprehensive prod-
uct range with ABB i-bus® KNX, in order to
meet the challenges posed to electrical build-
ing installations both today and in the future.
230 V
KNX bus
Image 2: The intelligent solution: KNX – a system, a standard,
many interoperable functions for maximum flexibility
6
1.2  What does KNX stand for?
KNX resulted from the merger of major bus
systems, including the wellknown EIB
(European Installation Bus) that has been
successfully on the market since 1992.
1.2.1 What does KNX stand for?
• KNX is the first globally standardized system
for the automation of residential and
non-residential buildings in accordance
with...
- International standard (ISO/IEC 14543-3)
- European standard (CENELEC EN 50090
and CEN EN 13321-1 und 13321-2)
- Chinese standard (GB/T 20965)
- US standard (ANSI/ASHRAE 135)
• KNX has established a clearly defined system
platform where the KNX products of differ-
ent manufacturers can be operated with one
another.
• Both the data protocol and the devices are
certified compliant to the KNX standard.
• KNX thus guarantees the networkability,
inter­operability, is both upward and down-
ward compatible and thus future-proof.
• Just one common software tool (ETS) is re-
quired for planning, engineering and com-
missioning of all KNX installations.
• Both the manufacturers and the KNX Associ-
ation support professionals during planning,
commissioning and maintenance worldwide.
• Extensive training courses for beginners and
experts are available at 459 certified training
locations in 70 countries.
• More than 469 certified manufacturers from
44 countries are organized in the
KNX Association.
• More than 81,000 qualified KNX planners
in 164 countries plan, install and integrate
KNX systems worldwide.
• Thousands of buildings, ranging from pri-
vate houses to airport complexes around the
world, are equipped with millions of KNX
products.
1.2.2 For consultants, system integrators
and electrical installers
Benefits for professionals
• Efficient planning
• Economic installation
• Fast integration
• Simple to commission
• International community
Benefits for customers
• Comfortable to operate
• Comprehensive functionality
• Quick to change and expand
• Energy saving
• Future-proof investment
• Reliable standard worldwide
• Unlimited options
• KNX is a byword for comfort, safety
and ease
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1.3  What does KNX do?

The use of new materials and the application

of renewable energies are considered as the
most significant innovations in the building
industry over the last few years. The growing
desire for comfort and functionality simulta-
neously with the limited availability of re-
sources and increasing energy costs provide
the basis for intelligent building control in
modern constructions.

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Image 3: Communication

KNX interconnects all the components in the

electrical installation to form a networked sys-
tem and thus guarantees the transparency and
utilization of information across the installa-
tion. In this system, all users “communicate”
via a single bus cable. Thus it is possible to in-
tegrate all the different fuctional subsystems
within the building into a seamless solution.

KNX bus systems can be used both in residen-

tial and non-residential buildings.

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Image 4: Heating, ventilation, air conditioning

Applications
• Lighting
• Heating, ventilation and air conditioning
(HVAC)
• Blinds
• Security
• Energy management
• Operation
• Automation
• Communication

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Image 5: Energy management
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2. Energy efficiency with ABB i-bus® KNX
Energy savings in the double-figure % range
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2.1  Potential savings

Climate change and growing shortages of
resources are the big challenges of our time.
Efficient and sustainable energy usage is
therefore an urgent necessity.
Scientific studies and measured values in
practice show a high energy saving potential
when bus technology is used in room and
building automation.
The ABB i-bus® KNX intelligent building control
system provides its customers with a broad
range of options for optimum energy effi-
ciency.
On the basis of the KNX standard, energy in
the double-figure % range can be saved.
Around the world new legislation is promoting
the use of energy efficient technologies.
In Europe, for example, the criteria for energy
efficiency in buildings is detailed in the Euro-
pean Standard EN 15232; the allocation into
energy efficiency classes A to D serves as the
basis for the evaluation.
The following diagram (Table 1) shows the dif-
ferences in energy consumption for three
building types in the energy efficiency classes
A, B and D relative to the basis values in
class C. For example, by using class A, 30% of
the thermal energy can be saved in offices.

Efficiency factor Efficiency factor

Energy efficiency class
for thermal energy for electric energy

Office School Hotel Office School Hotel

Highly energy
efficient room
A automation and 0.70 0.80 0.68 0.87 0.86 0.90
networked
subsections
Higher-quality
single solution
B optimized for 0.80 0.88 0.85 0.93 0.93 0.95
subsections,
partially networked
Standard room
C automation, 1 1 1 1 1 1
reference basis
No room
automation,
D 1.51 1.2 1.31 1.10 1.07 1.07
not energy
efficient

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Table 1: Energy efficiency classes to EN 15232
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2.2  Energy consumption in buildings
In principle, optimization of the energy
consumption in buildings means
• Energy is only consumed when it is actually
needed (for example through the usage of
presence detectors)
• Only the amount of energy actually required
is used (for example through the use of con-
stant lighting control)
• The energy used is employed at the highest
possible degree of efficiency (for example
through the use of electronic ballasts)
Using the versitile functionality that intelligent
building control offers real energy savings can
be made. ABB i-bus® KNX is making a signifi-
cant contribution to global climate protection
and at the same time reducing operating costs
in today’s buildings.
In total, the average energy savings that result
through optimization with KNX lie in the range
of 11 to 31% (Table 2).
Function
Room heating control
Heating automation
Shutter control
Lighting control
Air-conditioning control
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Table 2: Potential savings according to scientific studies
2.2.1 How does ABB i-bus® KNX work?
Within the KNX bus system, all sensors
(e.g. buttons or motion detectors) are inter-
connected to the actuators (e.g. dimming
actuators, roller shutter actuators) via a data
cable as opposed to directly wired switches
and consumers (conventional installation).
The actuators control the power circuit to the
consumer.
Communication for all devices is implemented
using data telegrams on the same bus cable.
The sensors send commands, actuators “listen
in” and execute a defined function as soon as
they are addressed.
A broad range of functions can be parameter-
ized with ABB i-bus® KNX, such as group com-
mands, logical sequences, control and regula-
tion tasks.
Energy savings in percent
about 14 to 25 %
about 7 to 17 %
about 9 to 32 %
about 25 to 58 %
about 20 to 45 %
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2.2.2 What does system integration mean?

During system integration, all the require-
ments of the investor or building owner are
implemented using KNX devices and the re-
spective product software.

Planning: During planning, the preliminary

requirements of the building owner are
incorporated into the concept and are
summarized in the functional description.

Engineering: The most suitable components

and software applications are selected.
The planning of the bus topology is realized
during the engineering phase. The system
devices required for implementing the KNX
network are defined. The project engineer-
ing using the ETS on the basis of the func-
tional description also takes place in this
phase.

Commissioning: During the commissioning

phase, the KNX devices are installed and
programmed. The ETS project that has
already been created is downloaded into
the devices using the ETS software.

Handover: During the handover phase, the

programmed functions are checked for
compliance to the requirements in the func-
tional description. In this way, the correct
function of the installation can be deter-
mined and documented.

Documentation: The customer receives the

project documentation (schematics, func-
tion description and ETS project data) after
the handover.
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3. KNX – The intelligent bus system
Structure and elements

3.1  Management, structure and topology
The communication medium – the KNX cable
In simple terms, the KNX bus consists of a pair
of twisted-pair wires (cable type, e.g. YCYM 2 x
2 x 0.8 or J-H(ST) H 2 x 2 x 0.8 halogenfree) that
connect the KNX devices. Over this cable, data
telegrams are transmitted, and the electronics
of the bus devices are supplied with energy.
The KNX system can also be extended over
IP-Networks and using RF solutions.
The KNX structure
The KNX structure created is very flexible in its
design due to the possible connection of the
devices: linear, tree and star wiring configura-
tions are allowed. (Image 6).
Tree wiring
Line wiring
KNX bus
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Image 6: Schematic representation of the KNX bus
13
The KNX topology
The KNX topology is arranged in lines that can
be inter connected via couplers depending on
the size of the network. The devices in the
respective lines (sensors and actuators) are
supplied with energy by a power supply (30 V)
whereby the entire KNX bus system can be
configured with more than 50.000 bus de-
vices.
Physical address structure:
xx.xx.xxx Area number (0–15)
xx.xx.xxx Line number (0–15)
xx.xx.xxx Device number (0–255)
The device number for line couplers (twisted
pair [TP], IP) must be 0! (xx.xx.000)
Star wiring
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3.2 Telegrams

Source address Length Check sum

Control byte Rooting
Destination address counter User information

8 bit 16 16+1 3 4 up to 16 x 8 8 bit

8 bit 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 bit

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Image 7: Telegram structure

3.2.1 Telegram Structure 3.2.2 Telegram Acknowlegdement

Devices communicate with one another using
“telegrams” which are sent via the bus. A tele-
gram consists of bus-specific information and
the actual user information in which the event
(e.g. pressing of a button) is communicated.
The entire information is sent packaged as
characters each 8 bit long. (Image 7)
After the telegram has been received by the
devices, it will then send a receipt of acknowl-
edgement.
(Table 3)
a By acknowledging with NAK (receipt not cor-
rect) the telegram is repeated up to three
times.
b By acknowledging with BUSY the transmit-
ting device will wait for a short time and
then resend the telegram.
c If the sending device does not receive an ac-
knowledgement, the telegram is repeated
up to three times before the sent request is
terminated.

D7 D6 D5 D4 D3 D2 D1 D0 Read direction of the data bit

N N 0 0 B B 0 0 Acknowledge message
1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 BUSY still busy
0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 NAK receipt not correct
1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 ACK receipt correct
B = 99 BUSY N = 00 NAK
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Table 3: Telegram Acknowlegdement
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3.3 Flags

Caution: The flags should only be modified in Transmit flag

exceptional cases!
Flags01 are settings in the ETS. The behaviour
of each communication object can be set on
the bus by using flags.
P If (on the sensor) the object value is
changed, a corresponding telegram
is sent.
– The communication object only sends
a response telegram with a read request.

Communication flag Update flag

P The communication object has a normal
connection to the bus.
– Telegrams are acknowledged, but the
communication object is not changed.
Read flag
P The object value can be read out via the
bus.
– The object value cannot be read via the
bus.
P Value response telegrams are interpreted
as write commands, the value of the com-
munication object is updated.
(always enabled in the BA – mask version
1.0 – 1.2).
– Value response telegrams are interpreted
as write commands, the value of the com-
munication object is not changed.

Write flag
P The object value can be modified via the
bus.
– The object value cannot be modified via
the bus.

01
(P) = flag set, (–) = flag not set
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3.4  Data Formats

DPT is the acronym for data point type. This mutually compatible and can exchange infor-
defines the properties of the useful informa- mation with other systems.
tion in telegrams used by all manufacturers, A clear benefit of KNX technology.
guaranteeing that all KNX-certified devices are

DPT-Type EIS-Type Description English description

DPT 1.0xx EIS 01 Switch Boolean

DPT 2.0xx EIS 08 Forced operation 1-Bit Controlled

DPT 3.0xx EIS 02 Relative dimming 3-Bit Controlled

DPT 4.0xx EIS 13 Character Character Set

DPT 5.0xx EIS 06 Value 8-Bit Unsigned Value

DPT 6.010 EIS 14 Signed counter value (8 bits) 8-Bit Signed Value

DPT 6.020 Status with operating mode Status with Mode

DPT 7.0xx EIS 10 Unsigned counter value (16 bits) 2-Octet Unsigned Value

EIS 10
DPT 8.0xx Signed counter value (16 bits) 2-Octet Signed Value
signed

DPT 9.0xx EIS 05 Floating-point value (16 bits) 2-Octet Float Value

DPT 10.001 EIS 03 Time Time

DPT 11.001 EIS 04 Date Date

DPT 12.001 EIS 11 Signed counter value (32 bits) 4-Octet Unsigned Value

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Table 4 (Continuation on next page): Definition of the Data Formats / EIS Types
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Bit/Byte Data point types

1 bit On/Off

value 0,1: control inactive

2 bit value 2: control active Off
value 3: control active On

4 bit 0 = Stop, 1…7 darker, 8 = Stop, 9….15 brighter

8 bit ASCII character

8 bit percentual value: 0% = 0....255 = 100%, unsigned Value: 0…255

8 bit signed Value: -128…+127

8 bit status with 3 modes

2 octets value: 0…65'535

2 octets value: -32'768…..+32'767

temperature: -271…+ 670'760 °C

temperature difference: +/- 670'760 K
change of temperature: +/- 670'760 K/h
illumination level : +/- 670'760 lux
wind speed: +/- 670'760 m/s
2 octets
air pressure: +/- 670'760 Pa
time difference: +/- 670'760 ms
voltage: +/- 670'760 mV
current: +/- 670'760 mA
and others...

3 octets day, hour, minute, second

3 octets day, month, year

4 octets value: 0…4'294'967'295

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DPT-Type EIS-Type Description English description

EIS 11
DPT 13.0xx Unsigned counter value (32 bits) 4-Octet Signed Value
signed

DPT 14.0xx EIS 09 Floating-point value (32 bits) 4-Octet Float Value

DPT 15.000 Access data Access

DPT 16.00x Text (14 bytes) String

DPT 17.00x Scene number Scene number

DPT 18.00x Scene control Scene control

DPT 19.00x Time + date time + data

DPT 20.00x 8-bit numbering 8-bit enumeration

DPT 29.012 Signed counter value (64 bits) 8-Octet Signed Value

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Table 4 (Continuation): Definition of the Data Formats / EIS Types
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Bit/Byte Data point types

4 octets value: -2'147'483'648….+2'147'483'647 (typical energy values like Wh, kWh, VAh..)

4 octets value: 0…8'388'607 (typical values like V, Hz, A, W…)

4 octets

14 octets text with max. 14 characters

8 octets Scene number without control function

8 octets Scene control 1–64 (0–63)

8 octets Combined time, date and day information

8 octets For example, for HVAC modes Auto, Comfort, Standby, Economy and Protection

8 octets value: -9 223 372 036 854 775 808….+9 223 372 036 854 775 807 (typical Wh, VAh, VARh)
20

3.5  Installation Instructions

a Check for compliance of allowable line
lengths: The maximum permissible bus line
lengths are defined by the voltage drops and
the capacitances of the bus cables, and thus
the telegram transmission times.
The measurement of the loop impedance of
the bus line concerned can prove to be use-
ful. (Image 8)
b Visual inspection for marking of bus cable
ends: The ends of the bus cables should be
labelled with “KNX” or “bus” clearly identify-
ing them as the installation bus. Further-
more, details of the area and line will assist
in the location of specifi c bus lines.
c Check for incorrect cable connections:
Different lines may only be connected using
a (line) coupler. Inadmissible connections
between the individual lines can be verified
by switching off the power supply on the
lines to be checked. If the power LED contin-
ues to light on the line coupler, an inadmissi-
ble connection has been made.
d Measure the insulation resistance of the
bus lines: The insulation resistance of the
bus cable should be measured with DC 250 V
(DIN VDE 0100 part 610). The insulation re-
sistance should be at least 250 kOhms. Mea-
surement is performed from the conductor
to PE, and not conductor to conductor.
CAUTION: Overvoltage surge protection
connectors should be removed before test-
ing in order to avoid influencing the mea-
surement or avoid damaging the surge pro-
tectors.
e Polarity test of all bus nodes: The polarity
test should be performed on all bus devices.
For this purpose switch to programming
mode on the bus device with the program-
ming button. The bus device is correctly
connected if the LED lights up. By renewed
pressing of the programming button the bus
device is switched over to operating mode
and the programming LED switches off.
f Measure the voltage on the bus cable ends
(at least 21 V): The bus voltage should be
checked with a voltmeter at the end of every
bus cable after all bus devices have been in-
stalled. It must be at least 21 V.

700 m

350 m

SV

TLN TLN
Total length 1000 m
TLN
In each place, the following line length limits:
TLN
Power Supply – Participant max. 350 m
Distance between two power supplies
TLN TLN including choke min. 200 m
Participant – Participant max. 700 m
TLN Total – Cable length max. 1000 m

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Image 8: Line lengths within a line
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3.6  Software

ETS is an all-new generation of intelligent

automation software. ETS stands for
Engineering Tool Software. This manufacturer-
independent configuration software is used to
plan and configure intelligent home and build-
ing control with the KNX system. ETS runs on
Windows©-based computers.
Using ETS5 Professional or a newer version,
you can compile solutions for all application
fields for which KNX-certified products are
available. ETS5 Professional therefore —
strengthens your company not only technolog- Image 9: ETS

ically, but above all economically (Image 9).

Manufacturer-specific additional
software/apps
Manufacturers can offer special tools
(ETS apps) for configuration or simplified
commissioning/analysis.

Image 10 Example applications from ABB

(additional applications available from the
KNX Store):
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Image 10: ABB Update & Convert
The i-bus® Tool from ABB is an entirely new
approach to software.
It assists system integrators in commissioning
and servicing KNX systems (Image 11).

This app provides a number of useful

functions for editing device configurations
(parameters and group addresses) in an
ETS project.

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Image 11: ABB i-bus® Tool
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3.7  KNXnet/IP / IP Secure

IP networks have now become standard in

larger buildings. These networks can also
be used to transmit KNX telegrams.

A flat hierarchy can be established by the use

Using KNX Secure IP Routers effectively pro-
of IP Gateways and IP Routers which feature
tects KNX installations against cyberattacks
similar functionalities as line and area cou-
and unauthorized access. The Secure Routers
plers. 255 KNX lines can be compiled to an
encrypt all communication over a building’s IP
IP world. 255 IP worlds can also co-exist on a
backbone and provide protection during the
LAN or WAN. Thus, even sections of the build-
commissioning phase as well, greatly reducing
ing which are further away can be integrated
the risk of attacks via the IP network.
into the system. (Image 12)
KNX IP Secure is designed to provide the best
possible security on the market, based on the
Replacement of line or area couplers by
ISO/IEC 18033-3 AES 128 encryption standard.
IP Routers facilitates higher data speeds be-
tween devices.
It combines interfacing of other systems
(e.g. building control engineering or visualiza-
tion) to the KNX via the IP network using OPC.
KNX devices can be programmed via the
IP network and remote access (remote pro-
gramming or remote control) is possible via
the Internet.

Router Switch Visualization PC

IP Router IP Router IP Router IP Router

IPR/S 3.5.1 IPR/S 3.5.1 IPR/S 3.5.1 IPR/S 3.5.1

KNX line 1 KNX line 2 KNX line 3 KNX line 4

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Image 12: Flat hierarchy with KNX lines
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4. Customer requirements and commissioning
Important information at a glance
 25

4.1  Tips and Tricks

Before we commence with commissioning, Caution: Line couplers must always be pro-
the grammed at the start of commissioning.
• RS 232/USB interface must be programmed If they are not programmed, they interfere
locally to suit the line. Failure to do so will with the bus communication.
mean the line couplers cannot be correctly
programmed. ETS4 enables simultaneous programming of
• Program the line couplers, possibly, setting devices in several lines in conjunction with the
the parameters then to route all telegrams connection with IP Routers. This helps you to
unfiltered. save time during set-up.
• ETS diagnostics ensures that no bus device
is in programming mode (programming but- Additional software and ETS apps (see
ton pressed, programming LED lights up.). page 21) simplify commissioning and
troubleshooting.
Commissioning of the bus devices
• Initially all of the bus devices will be physi- Selecting the right devices for the application
cally addressed. is crucial (switching capacity, functional
• If all devices are physically programmed, scope, etc.).
we can commence loading the applications.
(In order to save time, the applications
should be loaded during a break, e.g. lunch.
• The following points should be checked if
communication problems occur:
- The RS 232/USB interface is not physically
programmed.
- A device with an address corresponding to
line x is located in another line.
- Two different lines are interconnected with
each other.
- The line couplers are not programmed.
26

4.2  DALI basics

DALI, or Digital Addressable Lighting Interface, Cable installation

is a special protocol for digital lighting control
that makes it easy to install robust, scalable
and flexible lighting networks. DALI is covered
by the IEC/EN 62386 standard, and defines a
digital interface for electronic lighting equip-
ment (such as ballasts, LED converters and
emergency lighting converters).
• DALI is not an SELV system and therefore re-
quires basic 230 V insulation
• Standard NYM installation cables can be
used
• Installation together with the supply voltage
in a 5-core cable
• Two-wire control cable (polarity-free)
• Cable length is dependent on cross section
(max. voltage drop between device and gate-
way max. 2 volts!)

Technical characteristics
• Single-/multi-Master System
• 2-wire power supply and data transmission
cable Formula
• Power supply: 2 mA per DALI device at 16 V
(9.5 to 22.5 V) A = L * I * 0.018
• Data transmission: 1200 baud
(KNX: 9600 baud) A = cable cross section [mm2]
• DALI device may consume max. 2 mA L = cable length [m]
(max. system current: 250 mA) I = max. current of supply voltage
• No SELV; normal NYM cable can be used [A]

Cable cross section

2 x 0.5 2 x 0.75 2 x 1.0 2 x 1.5
[mm2]

One-way cable length

[m] 100 150 200 300
(= max. distance from PS)
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Table 5: Cable cross sections and corresponding cable lengths (rounded values)
 27

Basic information
DALI as single Master control System is defind
for:
• max. 64 single devices (individual addresses)
• max. 16 groups (group addresses)
• max. 16 scenes (scene lighting values)

The system intelligence was not centralized

in the DALI interface definition for operating
devices. Many settings and lighting values are
therefore stored in the ballast:
• Individual address
• Group assignment(s)
• Light scene value(s)
• Dimming speed
• Controller faulty value
(system failure level)
• Lighting value on voltage recovery
(power on level)
28

4.3  LED dimming

There is a range of variants for dimming LEDs.

Some of the factors to note when using these
variants include the following.
DALI
The dimming behavior or range (0–100%)
differs depending on the converter/driver.
The effective lower dimming limit could be
50%. It is therefore essential to observe the
technical data for the respective DALI devices!
Additionally bear in mind that the DALI dim-
ming curve is logarithmic, and not linear
Universal dimmers (forward/reverse phase
(as with KNX).
control)
Note in this regard that LED(i) loads in general
Main application:
have a very high starting current (approx. LED
New installations (purpose-built, residential
load specification x factor of 5). It is therefore
construction)
essential to observe the respective technical
data for the dimmers when designing the uni-
versal dimmers.
DMX
Info
DMX
The range of available lamps with DMX
ABB LED universal dimmers from 2018
is smaller than with DALI. Special expertise
onward have this starting current factored
is required!
in, which means that: ABB dimmer power =
LED load
Main application:
Stage equipment, lighting with high require-
ments
Main application:
Retrofit (residential construction)
Info

In general, DALI is the preferred option

for dimming LEDs.
 29

Analog (1-10 V)
Flexibility is limited compared to DALI, DMX
and ZigBee. The advantage lies in simple in-
stallation (no addressing) and no standby con-
sumption by converters/dimmers.

Main application:
Existing systems

ZigBee (including Philips Hue)

Requires specific interfaces for communication
(KNX-ZigBee). Depending on the KNX product,
the end user can independently change or
integrate ZigBee (Philips Hue) lamps.

Main application:
Residential construction (new and retrofit)
Garden lighting
30
4.4 Checklist
Lighting
О Operation from one or more positions
О Central/group operation
О Dimming from one or more positions
О Staircase lighting
О On and off delay
О Time control
О Presence-dependent control
О Logical combination
О Daylight dependent control
О Constant lighting control
О Light) scenes
О Status report
О Panic alarm
О Connection to DALI
О Light temperature and color control
(RGB, Tc, etc.)
Shading / Windows / Skylights / Awning
О Operation from one/several positions
О Central/group operation
О Time control
О Movement to position
О Adjustment/movement of louvre posi-
tions
О Weather-dependent control
(wind, rain, frost)
О Sun position dependent control
(daylight reflection)
О Temperature dependent control
О Heating/cooling automatic
О Scene control
О State message
О Night cool down (window opening)
О Gutter heating control
О Control of heated areas
Heating / Ventilation / Air conditioning
О Individual room temperature control
О Time control
О Presence control
О Remote control (e.g. telephone)
О Boiler control/monitoring
О Window position monitoring
О Controlled ventilation
О Exhaust air control
О Fault messages
О Parallel control of smoke and
heat extraction systems
О Primary/secondary system control
Safety functions
О Peripheral protection
О Internal surveillance
О External surveillance
О Smoke detection
О Water detection
О Gas detection
О Emergency call
О Internal alarm signal
О External alarm signal
О Presence simulation
О Triggering of in-house actions on
alarm/arming
О Panic alarm
О Coupling of arming device with KNX
О Access control
О Connection to video monitoring

Operation / Display
О Intelligent KNX push buttons
О Design program
О Several operational functions from
one location
О Status feedback via LED in push button
О Labelling of the functions on the
push button
О Remote control via infrared
О Conventional push buttons via interface
О LCD display for visualisation and
operation
О Visualisation via PC
О Display and operation via internet/
telephone/TV
О Room control via Intranet
О Voice control
О Combination with intercom system
Energy management
О Optimization of intrinsic consumption
О Display of energy consumption data
О Peak-load management (e.g. for electric
vehicle charging infrastructure)
О Combination
31
Different interdisciplinary functions
О Detection/processing of (error) messages
О Control of watering (Garden)
О Switching of hot water circulation pumps
О Mains enabling
О Switching of electrical outlets/circuits
О Monitoring of circuits
О Detection of power consumption values
О Room occupancy display
О Interface to other systems (OPC server,
IP gateway,...)
О Control of audio/video systems
О Connection of other systems via digital
and analogue inputs and outputs
О Connection of power line and
radio system via interfaces
О Solutions for special-needs and
nursing homes
О Acquisition of operating hours
О Acquisition of weather data
О Central KNX timer
32

4.5  Lamp and Consumer Loads

The following table provides and overview of the rated values, switching performance, lamp loads or
the number of lamps, which can be connected to a contact:
SAH/S 8.6.7.1 SAH/S 8.10.7.1 SAH/S 8.16.7.1
SAH/S 16.6.7.1 SAH/S 16.10.7.1 SAH/S 16.16.7.1
SAH/S 24.6.7.1 SAH/S 24.10.7.1 SAH/S 24.16.7.1
Range Combi Combi Combi
I n rated current (A) 3) 6A 10 A 5) 16 A 5)
U n rated voltage (V) 230 V AC 230 V AC 230 V AC
AC1 operation (cos φ = 0.8)
6A 10 A 16 A
acc. to EN 60947-4-1
AC3 operation (cos φ = 0.45)
6A 6A 6A
acc. to EN 60947-4-1
C-Load switching capacity (200 μF) – – –
Fluorescent lighting load
6 AX (140 µF)³) 10 AX (140 µF)³) 10 AX (140 µF)³)
AX acc. to EN 60669-1
Minimum switching capacity 100 mA/12 V 100 mA/12 V 100 mA/12 V
DC current switching capacity
6 A/24 V = 6 A/24 V = 6 A/24 V =
(resistive load)
Mechanical service life > 10 6 > 10 6 > 10 6
Electronic endurance to IEC 60947-4-1:
– Rated current AC1 (240 V/cos φ = 0.8) 100,000 100,000 100,000
– Rated current AC3 (240 V/cos φ = 0.45) 6,000 6,000 6,000
Incandescent lamp load at 230 V AC 1,200 W 1,200 W 1,200 W
Fluorescent lamp T5 / T8:
– Uncorrected 800 W 800 W 800 W
Low-voltage halogen lamps:
– Inductive transformer 800 W 800 W 800 W
– Electronic transformer 1,000 W 1,000 W 1,000 W
Halogen lamp 230 V 1,000 W 1,000 W 1,000 W
Mercury-vapour lamps:
– Uncorrected 1,000 W 1,000 W 1,000 W
– Parallel compensated 800 W 800 W 800 W
LED lamps/energy-saving lamps 250 W 250 W 250 W
Rated motor power 1,380 W 1,380 W 1,380 W
Max. peak inrush-current Ip (150 μs) 200 A 200 A 200 A
Max. peak inrush-current Ip (250 μs) 160 A 160 A 160 A
Max. peak inrush-current Ip (600 μs) 100 A 100 A 100 A
Number of ballasts (T5/
T8, single element): 2)
18 W (ABB ballasts 1 x 18 SF) 10 ballasts 10 ballasts 10 ballasts
24 W (ABB ballasts 1 x 24 CY) 10 ballasts 10 ballasts 10 ballasts
36 W (ABB ballasts 1 x 36 CF) 7 ballasts 7 ballasts 7 ballasts
58 W (ABB ballasts 1 x 58 CF) 5 ballasts 5 ballasts 5 ballasts
80 W (Helvar EL 1 x 80 SC) 3 ballasts 3 ballasts 3 ballasts

—
1) = The number of ballasts is limited by the protection with B16/B20 circuit-breakers.
2) = For multiple element lamps or other types, the number of electronic ballasts must be determined using the
peak inrush-current of the electronic ballasts.
3) = The maximum peak inrush-current may not be exceeded.
4) = Not intended for AC3 operation, see Technical Data for maximum AC3 current.
5) = Max. load current per device: 8-fold = 100 A, 16-fold = 160 A, 24 -fold = 200 A
 33

The following table provides an overview of the functions possible with the Switch Actuators and
their application programs:
SAH/S 8.6.7.1 SAH/S 8.10.7.1 SAH/S 8.16.7.1
SAH/S 16.6.7.1 SAH/S 16.10.7.1 SAH/S 16.16.7.1
SAH/S 24.6.7.1 SAH/S 24.10.7.1 SAH/S 24.16.7.1
Range Combi Combi Combi
Type of installation DIN-Rail DIN-Rail DIN-Rail
Number of outputs (Switch [Blind]) 8 [4]/16[8]/24 [12] 8 [4]/16[8]/24 [12] 8 [4]/16[8]/24 [12]
Module width (space unit) 4/8/12 4/8/12 4/8/12
Manual operation   
Switching position indication   
In rated current (A) 6A 10 A 16 A
Current measurement – – –
Switch function
– Central On/Off   
– Staircase lighting   
– Staircase lighting advance warning   
– Change staircase lighting time via
  
group object
– Flashing   
– S election of N.O./N.C. contact   
– Switching on/off delay   
Energy Function – – –
Load control integration – – –
Priority objects/forced
  
operation/blocking
Function Scene   
Blind/shutter function
– Central up/down/position/stop   
– B lind/shutter control   
– W ind/Rain/Frost alarm   
– Automatic sun protection   
– Parameterizable reversing time   
– Reference movement   
– Travel range limitation   
– Adjustable delay time for drives   
Function Logic
(independet of output)
– Logic AND function   
– Logic OR function   
– Logic exclusive OR function   
– Gate function   
– 1 bit Inverter – – –
Function Threshold
  
(independent of output)
Additional functions
– Request status values   
– Template parameter windows   
– Reaction on bus voltage failure/recovery   
– Advanced status group objects   

—
 = Function is supported
– = Function is not supported
34

The following table provides and overview of the rated values, switching performance, lamp loads or
the number of lamps, which can be connected to a contact:
SA/S 2.6.2.2 SA/S 2.10.2.2 SA/S 2.16.2.2
SA/S 4.6.2.2 SA/S 4.10.2.2 SA/S 4.16.2.2
SA/S 8.6.2.2 SA/S 8.10.2.2 SA/S 8.16.2.2
SA/S 12.6.2.2 SA/S 12.10.2.2 SA/S 12.16.2.2
Range Standard Standard Standard
I n rated current (A) 3) 6A 10 A 16 A
U n rated voltage (V) 230 V AC 230 V AC 230 V AC
AC1 operation (cos φ = 0.8)
6A 10 A 16 A
acc. to EN 60947-4-1
AC3 operation (cos φ = 0.45)
6A 8A 8A
acc. to EN 60947-4-1
C-Load switching capacity (200 μF) – – –
Fluorescent lighting load
6 AX (140 μF) 3)
10 AX (140 μF) 3)
16 A (140 μF) 3)
AX acc. to EN 60669-1
Minimum switching capacity 100 mA/12 V 100 mA/12 V 100 mA/12 V
DC current switching capacity
6 A/24 V = 10 A/24 V = 16 A/24 V =
(resistive load)
Mechanical service life > 3 x 10 6 > 3 x 10 6 > 3 x 10 6
Electronic endurance
acc. to IEC 60947-4-1:
– Rated current AC1 (240 V/cos φ = 0.8) 100,000 100,000 100,000
– Rated current AC3 (240 V/cos φ = 0.45) 30,000 30,000 30,000
– Rated current AC5a (240 V/cos φ = 0.45) 30,000 30,000 30,000
Incandescent lamp load at 230 V AC 1,380 W 2,500 W 2,500 W
Fluorescent lamp T5 / T8:
– Uncorrected 1,380 W 2,500 W 2,500 W
– Parallel compensated 1,380 W 1,500 W 1,500 W
– DUO circuit 1,380 W 1,500 W 1,500 W
Low-voltage halogen lamps:
– Inductive transformer 1,200 W 1,200 W 1,200 W
– Electronic transformer 1,380 W 1,500 W 1,500 W
Halogen lamp 230 V 1,380 W 2,500 W 2,500 W
Dulux lamps:
– Uncorrected 1,100 W 1,100 W 1,100 W
– Parallel compensated 1,100 W 1,100 W 1,100 W
Mercury-vapour lamps:
– Uncorrected 1,380 W 2,000 W 2,000 W
– Parallel compensated 1,380 W 2,000 W 2,000 W
LED lamps/energy-saving lamps 400 W 400 W 400 W
Rated motor power 1,380 W 1,840 W 1,840 W
Max. peak inrush current Ip (150 μs) 400 A 400 A 400 A
Max. peak inrush current Ip (250 μs) 320 A 320 A 320 A
Max. peak inrush current Ip (600 μs) 200 A 200 A 200 A
Number of ballasts
(T5/T8, single element): 2)
18 W (ABB ballasts 1 x 18 SF) 23 ballasts 23 ballasts 23 ballasts
24 W (ABB ballasts 1 x 24 CY) 23 ballasts 23 ballasts 23 ballasts
36 W (ABB ballasts 1 x 36 CF) 14 ballasts 14 ballasts 14 ballasts
58 W (ABB ballasts 1 x 58 CF) 11 ballasts 11 ballasts 11 ballasts
80 W (Helvar EL 1 x 80 SC) 10 ballasts 10 ballasts 10 ballasts

—
1) = The number of ballasts is limited by the protection with B16/B20 circuit-breakers.
2) = For multiple element lamps or other types, the number of electronic ballasts must be determined using the peak inrush-
current of the electronic ballasts.
3) = The maximum peak inrush-current may not be exceeded.
4) = Not intended for AC3 operation, see Technical Data for maximum AC3 current.
 35

The following table provides an overview of the functions possible with the Switch Actuators and
their application programs:
SA/S 2.6.2.2 SA/S 2.10.2.2 SA/S 2.16.2.2
SA/S 4.6.2.2 SA/S 4.10.2.2 SA/S 4.16.2.2
SA/S 8.6.2.2 SA/S 8.10.2.2 SA/S 8.16.2.2
SA/S 12.6.2.2 SA/S 12.10.2.2 SA/S 12.16.2.2
Range Standard Standard Standard
Type of installation DIN-Rail DIN-Rail DIN-Rail
Number of outputs 2/4/8/12 2/4/8/12 2/4/8/12
Module width (space unit) 2/4/8/12 2/4/8/12 2/4/8/12
Manual operation   
Switching position indication   
In rated current (A) 6A 10 A 16 A
Current measurement – – –
Switch function
– Central On/Off   
– Staircase lighting   
– Staircase lighting advance warning   
– Change staircase lighting time via
  
group object
– Flashing   
– S election of N.O./N.C. contact   
– Switching on/off delay   
Energy Function – – –
Load control integration – – –
Priority objects/forced
  
operation/blocking
Function Scene   
Blind/shutter function – – –
Function Logic
(independet of output)
– Logic AND function   
– Logic OR function   
– Logic exclusive OR function   
– Gate function   
– 1 bit Inverter – – –
Function Threshold
  
(independent of output)
Additional functions
– Request status values   
– Template parameter windows   
– Reaction on bus voltage failure/recovery   
– Advanced status group objects   

—
 = Function is supported
– = Function is not supported
36

The following table provides and overview of the rated values, switching performance, lamp loads or
the number of lamps, which can be connected to a contact:
SA/S 2.16.5.2 SA/S 2.16.6.2
SA/S 4.16.5.2 SA/S 4.16.6.2
SA/S 8.16.5.2 SA/S 8.16.6.2
SA/S 12.16.5.2 SA/S 12.16.6.2
Professional with
Range Professional
Energy Function
I n rated current (A) 3) 16/20 A C-Load 16/20 AX C-Load
U n rated voltage (V) 230 V AC 230 V AC
AC1 operation (cos φ = 0.8)
20 A 20 A
acc. to EN 60947-4-1
AC3 operation (cos φ = 0.45)
16 A 16 A
acc. to EN 60947-4-1
C-Load switching capacity (200 μF) 20 A 20 A
Fluorescent lighting load AX
20 AX (200 μF) 3) 20 AX (200 μF) 3)
acc. to EN 60669-1
Minimum switching capacity 100 mA/12 V 100 mA/12 V
DC current switching capacity
20 A/24 V = 20 A/24 V =
(resistive load)
Mechanical service life > 10 6 > 10 6
Electronic endurance
acc. to IEC 60947-4-1:
– Rated current AC1 (240 V/cos φ = 0.8) 100,000 100,000
– Rated current AC3 (240 V/cos φ = 0.45) 30,000 30,000
– Rated current AC5a (240 V/cos φ = 0.45) 30,000 30,000
Incandescent lamp load at 230 V AC 3,680 W 3,680 W
Fluorescent lamp T5 / T8:
– Uncorrected 3,680 W 3,680 W
– Parallel compensated 2,500 W 2,500 W
– DUO circuit 3,680 W 3,680 W
Low-voltage halogen lamps:
– Inductive transformer 2,000 W 2,000 W
– Electronic transformer 2,500 W 2,500 W
Halogen lamp 230 V 3,680 W 3,680 W
Dulux lamps:
– Uncorrected 3,680 W 3,680 W
– Parallel compensated 3,000 W 3,000 W
Mercury-vapour lamps:
– Uncorrected 3,680 W 3,680 W
– Parallel compensated 3,000 W 3,000 W
LED lamps/energy-saving lamps 650 W 650 W
Rated motor power 3,680 W 3,680 W
Max. peak inrush current Ip (150 μs) 600 A 600 A
Max. peak inrush current Ip (250 μs) 480 A 480 A
Max. peak inrush current Ip (600 μs) 300 A 300 A
Number of ballasts (T5/
T8, single element): 2)
18 W (ABB ballasts 1 x 18 SF) 26 1) ballasts 26 1) ballasts
24 W (ABB ballasts 1 x 24 CY) 26 1) ballasts 26 1) ballasts
36 W (ABB ballasts 1 x 36 CF) 22 ballasts 22 ballasts
58 W (ABB ballasts 1 x 58 CF) 12 1) ballasts 12 1) ballasts
80 W (Helvar EL 1 x 80 SC) 12 1) ballasts 12 1) ballasts

—
1) = The number of ballasts is limited by the protection with B16/B20 circuit-breakers.
2) = For multiple element lamps or other types, the number of electronic ballasts must be determined using the peak inrush-
current of the electronic ballasts.
3) = The maximum peak inrush-current may not be exceeded.
4) = Not intended for AC3 operation, see Technical Data for maximum AC3 current.
 37

The following table provides an overview of the functions possible with the Switch Actuators and
their application programs:
SA/S 2.16.5.2 SA/S 2.16.6.2
SA/S 4.16.5.2 SA/S 4.16.6.2
SA/S 8.16.5.2 SA/S 8.16.6.2
SA/S 12.16.5.2 SA/S 12.16.6.2
Professional with
Range Professional
Energy Function
Type of installation DIN-Rail DIN-Rail
Number of outputs 2/4/8/12 2/4/8/12
Module width (space unit) 2/4/8/12 2/4/8/12
Manual operation  
Switching position indication  
In rated current (A) 16/20 A C-Load 16/20 A C-Load
Current measurement – 
Switch function
– Central On/Off  
– Staircase lighting  
– Staircase lighting advance warning  
– Change staircase lighting time
 
via group object
– Flashing  
– S election of N.O./N.C. contact  
– Switching on/off delay  
Energy Function – 
– Current measurement – 
– Power calculation – 
– Energy consumption calculation – 
– Load monitoring – 
Load control integration – 
Priority objects/forced
 
operation/blocking
Function Scene  
Blind/shutter function – –
Function Logic
(independet of output)
– Logic AND function  
– Logic OR function  
– Logic exclusive OR function  
– Gate function  
– 1 bit Inverter – 
Function Threshold
 
(independent of output)
Additional functions
– Request status values  
– Template parameter windows  
– Reaction on bus voltage failure/recovery  
– Advanced status group objects  

—
 = Function is supported
– = Function is not supported
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or modify the contents of this document
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orders, the agreed particulars shall prevail.
ABB does not accept any responsibility
whatsoever for potential errors or possible lack
of information in this document.

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—
Further Information and Local Contacts:
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Order Number 2CDC500043B0202 Rev. C (01/2021)